You have to admit, SUVs have certainly come a long way to deal with the ever present problems of a high risk of rollovers.  They have made great strides to increase rollover resistance and reduce rollover accidents, but sometimes their high centers of gravity just cannot be controlled.  Yet, there are ways to aid in preventing rollovers from happening, and if they do, safety precautions to take to decrease risk of injury.  The first step would be to always wear a seatbelt.  This may seem obvious, but there are still many today who do not automatically buckle up.  Especially with a rollover crash, if the seatbelt is not there to hold the occupants in, they are likely to be thrown from the vehicle and often time under the vehicle as it is rolling.  The NHTS estimates that occupants wearing their belts are about 75 percent less likely to be killed in a rollover crash than are unbelted occupants.  One hazard that drivers may not think of is heavy objects.  Even something such as a hardcover book or suitcase could become a lethal projectile in a rollover. So, load the vehicle carefully, and distribute the load evenly to minimize handling changes in your vehicle. Be aware that any load placed on the roof will be above the vehicle's center of gravity and will increase the likelihood of rolling over.  Be alert and cautious off the highway and on any curved, rural roads.  If you find yourself in a sudden situation, such as a wheel going off the pavement, stay calm.  Most of all, do not overcorrect with a sudden swerve.  Instead, gradually ease your way back on to the pavement.  Although all of this happens in a few seconds, it is key to avoid turning the steering wheel quickly.  This could be the main cause in losing total control.  Also, make sure tires are properly inflated and have decent tread.  Either of these can affect the way the vehicle handles.

The most important part of avoiding rollovers is to be aware.  Know that if you are driving a truck or SUV, the chances of this happening are higher.  Use caution on tight curves and bumpy roads, be alert and focused when driving, do not quickly overcorrect the steering wheel, and always buckle up.